city guide
A hand-picked guide to 3 of the most stunning waterfalls in Yorkshire Dales. Each entry below has our personal notes, photos, driving directions and the practical detail you need to plan a visit — from parking and hike lengths to swimming rules and the best time of year to go.
#1 · 30 m drop
Yorkshire Dales · England · United Kingdom
Aysgarth Falls is one of the most famous groups of waterfalls in the area, and it’s just a few minutes’ drive to reach.
With a combination of forest trails and cascading waterfalls, it’s a perfect place for a relaxing walk.
#2 · 198 m drop
Yorkshire Dales · England · United Kingdom
Cautley Spout, the highest cascade waterfall in England, is absolutely worth a stop on your list.
The scenery is stunning and definitely worth the effort. Although the hike is quite challenging, we even saw a couple in their 70s camping at the summit and crossing a cliff section with ease. As younger hikers, we definitely couldn’t lose to that!
That said, the weather here is no joke. The wind was so strong it completely numbed my lower lip to the point where I couldn’t even speak properly. At times, it felt like I could literally be blown off my feet. The “wild British wind” is real and should not be underestimated.
#3 · 30 m drop
Yorkshire Dales · England · United Kingdom
The largest single-drop waterfall in the UK! A hidden paradise in North Yorkshire
Tired of London and Edinburgh? Then Wensleydale in North Yorkshire is definitely worth a visit. It’s not only famous worldwide for its cheese, but also home to England’s highest single-drop waterfall—Hardraw Force.
Hardraw Force Waterfall: With a vertical drop of about 30 meters, the flow becomes especially impressive after rain, which is common in the UK. It was also a filming location for *Robin Hood*.
Wet rocks, hidden currents and fast-changing weather catch out experienced hikers every year. Read our quick safety guide before you head out.